During a recent trip to the Scout Shop, I saw a display of survival bracelets. Granted, you can pick these up virtually anywhere. What’s made these stick out was that the buckle is embossed with the Boy Scouts of America. Made by Bison Designs these are available exclusively from the BSA and some of the proceeds go to “Wounded Veterans.”
NRA’s Life of Duty is presenting a multi-part video series on ODA 574 and their pivotal role on liberating Afghanistan from Taliban rule. They have just added the preview for part III and it is well worth watching. What’s more, we really like what Life of Duty is up to. Head over and take a look and consider supporting a membership for a Military, LE, or Public Safety professional.
Since last week’s tragic loss of 31 American warriors we have received several queries about where to best give in order to support the families of our fallen servicemen. Due to the joint nature of the force, the issue has become a bit convoluted. This issue has made it difficult for organizers to funnel support in the right directions. However, here is what we can recommend. All are legitimate and have a record of providing support.
The Armed Forces Foundation – They have a history for supporting the families of America’s fallen warrior regardless of branch of service, specialty, or unit. They have pledged to support not only the families SOF personnel but also the Army Reserve aircrew serving as augmentees to the 10th Mountain.
Special Operations Warrior Foundation – Big thanks to the folks at SOWF. Thanks to them, children of all of the casualties will receive a college education. Despite the fact that the aircrew were not SOF personnel, it was a SOF mission and SOWF has determined that it is the right thing to do in supporting the all of the survivors.
Navy SEAL Foundation – They will support the families of the Navy casualties, providing immediate and ongoing support and assistance to the Naval Special Warfare community and their families. This loss has hit NSW particularly hard and they can really use your support. You can also donate via text. Text “SEAL†to 90999 to donate $10 to the Navy SEAL Foundation.
31 Heroes – There is a massive mobilization by the CrossFit community on 3 September to honor our lost warriors. Proceeds from the day’s workout will go to support the families through various charities. If you CrossFit, get involved.
ITS Tactical – They have developed a memorial patch in order to raise funds. As of right now, their proceeds will be donated to the Navy SEAL Foundation.
That Other’s May Live Foundation – Provides post-secondary education assistance to children whose USAF parents or guardians were lost in a personnel recovery mission, training, or other personnel recovery collateral mission. They act much like SOWF but cover all USAF personnel lost in PR missions regardless of specialty.
Also, if anyone wants to donate to the memorial service for CCT
Combat Control Association
PO Box 432
Mary Esther, FL 32569-0432
Special Operations Support Fund – Arc’teryx immediately set up a fund for those in the outdoor industry to support the families. However, donations are open to all. Arc’teryx is working to ensure that the funds received are distributed equitably.
Unfortunately, due to the way SOF is employed, our charitable organizations have been parochial in nature and this is the first instance in some time that both SOF and Conventional troops have been lost while working together on the same operation. This means that, with the exception of the college education provided by SOWF there is not a single source for donations that will affect all of the families. When donating, please remember that this was a joint force and their loss will be felt by all. All families will have immediate needs and most could use assistance well into the future.
SSD favorites Pimps N Mercs has introduced several new badges in MultiCam. Below is a good sampling of what we’re talking about. While you’re there, check out their other wares.
OR attendees participate in a wide variety of recreational during their visit. Sunday morning was no different with a couple of friends out doing a little bouldering before the show. But, danger lurks in the wilderness and you have to be careful. That is, if you’re a 5′ rattlesnake. Then, the last thing you want to do is menace a Ranger and Green Beret as they take to the cliffs.
HEADACHE!
To call yesterday at Outdoor Retailer “somber” would be an understatement. Many of the vendors and quite a few attendees had contact with the personnel lost in the helicopter tragedy in Afghanistan.
Arc’teryx decided to do something positive and has set up the Special Operations Support Fund through PayPal. Funds donated will be given to charities that support the families of those involved.
Our warriors did not die in vain. Keep up the fight. Don’t let the bastards get you down.
Those interested in contributing to this cause should go to www.paypal.com.
In what we hope is the first of many reports from the OR show floor we bring you three new Demerit Badges from www.demeritwear.com. They are skinny-dipping, heavy pack, and stripper.
